Bill could make UA vs. ASU football game a reality - KAIT-Jonesboro, AR-News, weather, sports

JONESBORO, AR (KAIT) - Will a measure by lawmakers force ASU and the University of Arkansas to play each other in football?

Rep. Andy Mayberry (R-East End) and Rep. Harold Copenhaver (D-Jonesboro) have drafted House Bill 2274, a measure that would require the two teams to play each other one time only at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock, with at least $250,000 of the proceeds from the game going towards a charitable cause in Arkansas.

ASU professor Dr. Ralph Ruby supports the idea."I think it would take and generate a lot of funds and those funds could stay in state and I think two universities would benefit."

"I think it's a little ridiculous. I don't mind the teams playing, but I don't think there should be any law proposed," said Jonesboro resident Jacob Calhoon.

They website, arkansasasubenefit.com was created, asking if people want the game to happen, and which organization should get the proceeds.

"There's a lot more important things out there to make bills about than football games," said college student Shelby Peel. "I know that  a lot of people would pay to go see it. It would definitely be sold out."

Former ASU Director of Football Operations Jack Peel believes the game would greatly benefit the state of Arkansas, but says the universities should make the decision.

"I was part of Coach Freeze's staff when he was here. There was some talk of it then," Peel said. "It would be a great thing for the state, but I don't think the government has any business getting involved with that."

The web poll at arkansasasubenefit.com closes Saturday, March 16 at midnight.

The Razorback Foundation has responded to the bill.

In an e-mail to foundation members, Executive Director Sean Rochelle said:

"As you are most likely aware, the University of Arkansas has maintained a long-standing policy of not scheduling intercollegiate athletic competitions against other in-state institutions.

This approach continues to serve in the best interests of the University of Arkansas and the Razorback program."

The bill will go before the House Committee next week.

Click here to read HB2274.